Complete Lift and Lock Tub Drain PW Plumb Work 679-0326 Review

Is your bathtub drain slow, leaky, or just plain outdated? You’re not alone—according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, plumbing leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually in American homes. If you’re searching for a reliable, easy-to-install replacement, the Complete Lift and Lock Tub Drain PW Plumb Work 679-0326 might be your perfect solution. Designed for durability and simplicity, this tub drain assembly combines modern engineering with user-friendly functionality—ideal for DIYers and professional plumbers alike.

What Is the Complete Lift and Lock Tub Drain PW Plumb Work 679-0326?

The Complete Lift and Lock Tub Drain PW Plumb Work 679-0326 is a fully assembled bathtub drain kit that uses a lift-and-lock mechanism instead of traditional trip levers or pop-up stoppers. This design eliminates complex linkages, reducing clogs and simplifying maintenance.

Manufactured by PW Plumb Work, a trusted name in plumbing fixtures, model 679-0326 is specifically engineered for standard 14″–17″ bathtub drain openings and fits most acrylic, fiberglass, and cast iron tubs. It includes:

• Chrome-finished drain body
• Lift-and-lock strainer
• Adjustable tailpiece (13–17″ length)
• Rubber gasket and washer
• All necessary nuts and fittings

Unlike older pop-up systems that rely on hidden rods and springs, the lift-and-lock mechanism allows you to open or close the drain with a simple quarter-turn twist—no tools required after installation.

“Simplified drain mechanisms like lift-and-lock reduce long-term maintenance costs by up to 35%,” notes plumbing expert Maria Lopez of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC).

Why Choose a Lift-and-Lock Drain Over Traditional Systems?

Homeowners often struggle with traditional tub drains that:

• Get stuck due to hair and soap buildup
• Require disassembly just to clean
• Leak because of misaligned linkages

The PW Plumb Work 679-0326 addresses these issues head-on. Here’s how it compares:

Lift-and-Lock vs. Pop-Up Drain: Key Differences

This streamlined design aligns with modern plumbing trends favoring minimalist, user-controlled fixtures—a key reason why the Complete Lift and Lock Tub Drain PW Plumb Work 679-0326 has gained popularity in U.S. bathroom renovations.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing the PW Plumb Work 679-0326 is beginner-friendly—just follow these steps:

Tools Needed:

• Adjustable wrench
• Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant
• Bucket & towel (for residual water)

Instructions:

1. Drain the Tub Completely
   Remove any standing water. Place a bucket under the overflow plate if accessible.
2. Remove the Old Drain
   Use a drain wrench or pliers to unscrew the old strainer. Clean the drain opening thoroughly.
3. Apply Sealant
   Roll plumber’s putty into a ¼” rope and place it around the underside of the new strainer flange. Alternative: Use waterproof silicone for non-porous tubs (e.g., acrylic).
4. Insert the Drain Body
   Thread the 679-0326 assembly into the drain hole from above. From below, slide the rubber gasket and washer onto the tailpiece, then hand-tighten the locknut.
5. Adjust Tailpiece Length
   The telescoping tailpiece adjusts from 13″ to 17″. Extend or compress it to align with your P-trap. Tip: Leave ½” of play for final alignment.
6. Secure & Test
   Tighten the locknut with a wrench (don’t overtighten—15–20 ft-lbs torque max). Fill the tub with 2–3 gallons of water, then open/close the strainer 5 times to check for leaks.

⚠️ Pro Tip: Always test for leaks before reinstalling the overflow plate or tub surround.

For visual reference, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing fixtures, which explains drain mechanics and standards.

Common Problems & How to Fix Them

Even high-quality parts like the PW Plumb Work 679-0326 can face issues if installed incorrectly. Here are real-world fixes:

• Leaking Around the Flange?
  → Likely cause: Insufficient or uneven putty. Remove, clean, and reapply sealant.
• Strainer Won’t Lock Closed?
  → Debris may be blocking the threads. Unscrew the strainer, rinse under warm water (22–28°C), and reinsert.
• Slow Drainage?
  → Check the P-trap for clogs. The lift-and-lock design doesn’t prevent pipe blockages—use a drain snake if needed.

Is the PW Plumb Work 679-0326 Compatible With My Tub?

This model fits most standard bathtubs in the U.S., including:

• Kohler, American Standard, and Delta tubs
• Fiberglass showers with integrated tubs
• Cast iron tubs with 1.5″ NPT (National Pipe Thread) outlets

✅ Check compatibility: Measure your drain opening—it should be 1.5 inches in diameter with standard threading. If your tub uses a trip lever overflow, you’ll need to cap or bypass it, as the 679-0326 doesn’t connect to overflow mechanisms.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I install the Complete Lift and Lock Tub Drain PW Plumb Work 679-0326 myself?

A: Yes! No special tools or plumbing experience are required. Most DIYers complete installation in under 30 minutes.

Q2: Does this drain work with whirlpool or jetted tubs?

A: Generally, yes—if the tub uses a standard drain opening. However, some jetted tubs have proprietary drain systems. Verify your model before purchasing.

Q3: Is the finish truly corrosion-resistant?

A: The drain features a triple-layer chrome plating over brass, tested to withstand 500+ hours of salt spray (per ASTM B117). Ideal for humid bathrooms.

Q4: What’s the warranty on the PW Plumb Work 679-0326?

A: PW Plumb Work offers a 5-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects and finish degradation.

Q5: Can I replace just the strainer without buying the whole kit?

A: Technically yes, but the strainer is precisely machined to match the 679-0326 body. Using third-party parts may cause leaks or misalignment.

Q6: How do I clean the lift-and-lock mechanism?

A: Unscrew the strainer, rinse under warm water, and wipe with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners—they can scratch the chrome.

Conclusion

The Complete Lift and Lock Tub Drain PW Plumb Work 679-0326 is more than just a replacement part—it’s a smart upgrade for any U.S. homeowner tired of finicky, leak-prone drains. With its tool-free operation, quick installation, and durable construction, it delivers both performance and peace of mind.

If you’ve struggled with gunk-clogged pop-ups or mysterious leaks, this modern solution could save you time, water, and future repair costs.

Found this guide helpful? Share it on Facebook, Pinterest, or Reddit to help fellow DIYers tackle their next bathroom fix! 💧🔧